undefined (Image: Getty Images)
Former Ferrari chief Jean Todt has spoken out about the affectionate visits he makes to see ailing Formula One legend Michael Schumacher. Schumacher has remained out of the public eye since a devastating skiing accident in December 2013, with only a select few allowed to visit him.
Todt, who worked alongside the German for over a decade at , is among those who have seen him since the accident. Although he has kept details of Schumacher’s condition under wraps, Todt revealed the emotional bond he shares with his long-time friend.
In an interview with La Repubblica via Formula Passion, he said: “The family has decided not to answer the question.
“A choice that I respect. I see him regularly and with affection, him and his family. Our bond goes beyond the past work. It is part of my life, which today is very far from Formula 1.”
Todt’s association with Schumacher began when he convinced the driver to join in 1995. During his tenure as CEO, which started in 2004, Schumacher secured his seventh world title, and the team won six consecutive Constructors’ Championships under Todt’s leadership.
Jean Todt (Image: Getty Images)
It’s not the first instance where insights about his bond with Schumacher have emerged. Previously speaking to L’Equipe, he remarked: “Michael is here, so I don’t miss him. [But he] is simply not the Michael he used to be. He is different and is wonderfully guided by his wife and children who protect him.
Jean Todt and Michael Schumacher (Image: Getty Images)
“His life is different now and I have the privilege of sharing moments with him. That’s all there is to say. Unfortunately, fate struck him ten years ago. He is no longer the Michael we knew in Formula 1.”
In another heartfelt disclosure ahead of a documentary, Schumacher’s spouse Corinna touched on his health situation, demarcating their preference for privacy. She said: “‘Private is private’, as he always said.
“It’s very important to me that he can continue to enjoy his private life as much as possible. Michael always protected us and now we are protecting Michael.
“I miss Michael every day but it’s not just me who misses him. It’s the children, the family, his father, everyone around him.
“Everybody misses Michael, but Michael is here – different, but here. He still shows me how strong he is every day.”